Riot police and helicopters were deployed last night after reports of a disturbance in the centre of Newport .

Eyewitness reports said there were helicopters, riot police and fire engines deployed to help calm the disturbance that reportedly happened in Commercial Street.

A total of six people from Newport have been arrested.

Video footage from the scene appears to show fires being set, police with riot shields and dogs, helicopters overhead and lots of shouting and confrontation on the street.

One eyewitness said the disturbances started at around 8pm on Thursday, and continued through the night.

They added: “Everybody was moving their cars and closing their shops.

“The helicopter was overhead and police had to at first reverse away as they were throwing bricks and fireworks at them.”

The eyewitness also said a close relative was hit with a brick in the chaos.

She added: “It’s been going on for few days where people are lighting fireworks and throwing them, but last night got out of hand and there were cars damaged in the process.”

She said council workers were on the scene on Friday morning cleaning up broken glass, fire, ash and empty firework cases.

Gwent Police said one 24-year-old and two 13-year-old males were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. A 20-year-old man, a 16-year-old man and a 17-year-old woman were also all arrested following the breach of a dispersal order.

According to the South Wales Argus, one resident said people were throwing stones and bricks at the police and wheelie bins were set alight. The website also reported there were lots of scorch marks on the road this morning.

A Gwent Police spokeswoman said: "At 8.35pm on Thursday, emergency services received reports of a disorder on Commercial Road, Newport.

Riot police deployed in Newport as streets are set on fire

"Police and fire crews attended the location and a dispersal order was issued to deal with anti-social behaviour.

"We have not received any reports of injuries sustained during the incident and police patrols are on-going to reassure local residents and prevent further events."

Local policing commander Glyn Fernquest said: "Thankfully incidents of this nature are extremely rare in Newport and we are determined to bring those responsible to justice. Officers are patrolling the area, providing a visible presence, so if you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to them.

"An investigation is on-going to identify other individuals involved. If anyone has any information, please get in touch. This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

Newport council has said it is calling a meeting to discuss action to be taken following the incident. Gwent Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue service and local councillors will attend.

A Newport council spokeswoman said: "The council responded to a call to help clear debris from Commercial Road in Pill earlier today following last night’s incident.

"The safety and well-being of all residents of Newport is a priority for the council. The negative actions of a small group of people will not be tolerated."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 quoting log 524 20/10/16.